Room-by-Room: Beachy Style

Welcome to the Coastal Living Tidewater Landing Idea House, just steps from the Chesapeake Bay.

Jean Allsopp

Idea House Balcony

Welcome to the Coastal Living Tidewater Landing Idea House, where our team created almost 7,000 square feet of inspirational spaces just steps from the Chesapeake Bay.

Spectacular ViewOn the first-floor porch of the Idea House, synthetic-wicker seating covered in patterned cushions extends the interior's living and dining spaces.

Tip: Think weatherproof. Select durable outdoor fabrics and furnishings so there are no worries about coming in off the beach and plopping down on the porch.

Jean Allsopp

Elegant Style

In the this living space, pale blue walls soothe the senses and act as a skylike backdrop for off-white furnishings. The upholsteries are soft colors in a variety of textures that give life and harmony to the room.

Tip: Be versatile. Choose furnishings, such as drop-leaf tables and ottomans, that can pull double duty when friends and family visit.

Jean Allsopp

Guesthouse Chic

A private cottage above the garage explodes with color and funky, modern styling -- vividly painted wicker and wood, playful patterns, and tonal striped walls. The juxtaposition of contemporary and cottage styles extends to the convenient kitchen, with its eclectic mix of wicker accents, stainless appliances, a farmhouse-style sink, and soapstone countertops.

Tip: Add history. Seek architectural salvage for instant nostalgia.

Jean Allsopp

Restful Retreat

A plush settee covered in resilient outdoor fabric invites homeowners to the master suite's sitting room. Beneath a bank of windows, a leather-topped, campaign-style desk and chair provide the perfect spot for gazing out over the bay.

Tip: Carve out a sanctuary. Even the smallest area -- the stairway landing or a nook under the roofline -- can provide a spot for quiet contemplation when outfitted with a comfortable chair.

Jean Allsopp

Casual Convenience

A cozy reading nook in this window-wrapped space features twin club chairs in a beachy plaid, a floor lamp with a striped silk shade, and a soft Berber wool rug.

Fine Dining

Tabletop accessories, such as the mercury glass balls and mother-of-pearl bowl, sparkle when the sun streams through the dining room's French doors and windows. The designers put a modern twist on a traditional Queen Anne-style dining table by replacing some of the chairs with a cream-colored, tufted-leather settee.